Windshield Wipers Cost

How Much Do Windshield Wipers Cost?

Windshield wipers typically consist of a lower wiper arm that protrudes up from the vehicle and the wiper blade assembly that attaches to that arm; the blade assembly includes a long strip of rubber or silicone that wipes the glass. Often the driver's-side blade is a different length than the one on the passenger's side, so replacements are usually sold individually rather than in pairs.

Typical costs:

If the wiper blade assembly is still in good shape, replacing just the squeegee strip typically costs $2-$12 each or $4-$24 a pair, depending on length, brand and type. Rubber is typically less expensive than silicone or Teflon. For example, Amazon sells a single Trico 19" Teflon Blade Refill[1] for about $9.

A standard replacement blade assembly for the front windshield or a rear wiper on a hatchback or SUV typically costs $7-$20 each, or $14-$40 a pair, depending on length, type and brand. For example, JC Whitney sells an Anco OE Replacement Wiper Blade[2] for a 2009 Toyota Camry for $14-$22.

Wiper blades that fit luxury vehicles can cost $15-$50 or more each, or $30-$100 or more for a pair, depending on the size and brand. For example, AutoPartsWarehouse.com sells a set of two Bosch Wiper Blades[3] for a BMW for $34 or a single 28" 2001-2006 Mercedes Benz S430 Wiper Blade[4] for $38.

Beam blades -- also called bracketless wipers, six-beam blades or flat blades -- don't have the traditional metal structure but instead are supported from the inside, for a sleeker look; they typically cost about $10-$25 each, or $20-$50 a pair. For example, a single 22" Bosch Evolution Wiper Blade[5] costs about $14-$18.

Wiper blades with a built-in heating element typically cost about $100-$200 for two heated blades and a wiring harness; blade refills are usually about $30-$55 each. Heated wiper blade are generally manufactured by small companies, such as Everblades[6] , Heat Flexx[7] , Ice-E-Liminator[8] or Thermalblade[9] .

Installing a refill wiper squeegee involves removing retaining clips on the blade and using needle-nose pliers to remove the old strip and slide in the new one. FamilyHandyman.com provides how-to instructions[10] , estimating that the project takes about five minutes.

Replacing the entire wiper blade is generally more convenient than refilling the squeegee strip, because the blade assembly typically snaps into place of the wiper arm and is relatively easy to remove.

Additional costs:

Most experts recommend replacing a vehicle's windshield wipers every six months or so; according to Consumer Reports[11] most wipers start degrading after a few months of regular use.

When replacing the windshield wipers, it's a good idea to also fill the windshield wiper fluid, which can cost $3-$20 a bottle, depending on brand and model. Check the owner's manual for how to locate the wiper fluid reservoir.

Many auto parts stores or quick-oil-change companies include installation free with the purchase of windshield wiper blades. Others may charge an additional $20-$25.

Discounts:

If the wipers appear to be in good condition but are not doing a good job of cleaning the windshield, before paying for replacements try wiping the wipers and the windshield under them with windshield washer fluid or mild liquid dish soap on a sponge or rag, or an alcohol wipe. Cleaning dirty wipers may make then last several more months.

Shopping for windshield wipers:

The first step is to look up the vehicle's make and model; stores or mechanics that sell windshield wipers typically have reference books or software, so they can determine the correct replacement part.

Windshield wipers are sold at big box stores like Walmart[12] ; auto parts stores like Advance Auto Parts[13] or Napa Auto Parts[14] ; and through online retailers like Amazon[15] or AutoPartsWarehouse.com[16] .

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